Oak Chiton

Onithochiton quercinus

A variety of different types of chitons live on Queensland’s rocky shores. The Oak Chiton is easily recognised by its mottled grey, green, and black leathery girdle. It may grow to 50mm long, and live exposed on rocks in the intertidal and shallow subtidal zones, grazing algae growing on the rock surface with their rasp-like teeth (radulae). The strong muscular foot helps them to hang on in the continual surge from waves and tides.

This species is found from Central Queensland southwards to southern WA.

Oak Chiton (Onithochiton quercinus), Wild Guide to Moreton Bay

Queensland Museum's Find out about... is proudly supported by the Thyne Reid Foundation and the Tim Fairfax Family Foundation.